Freeport Board of Adjustments gives owners 90 days to remove or repair two unsafe properties; residents press for Bridge Harbor action

During a public hearing, the Freeport Board of Adjustments voted to give property owners of 122 West Seventh and 24 North Avenue A a maximum of 90 days to repair or remove structures the city has declared dangerous, and directed that at least one structure be secured within 10 days.

The board’s action followed presentations by Shelby, a building-department staff member, and public comments from property owners and residents. Shelby told the board the first notice for the 122 West Seventh property was sent on July 16, 2024, and that she declared the building a dangerous structure on Dec. 23, 2024. Shelby said no demolition progress had been made as of the Dec. 23 inspection and recommended demolition.

The owner of 122 West Seventh, Margaret Matthews, told the board she does not live at the vacant structure and said she is “in the process of getting that taken down.” Matthews said the house is “very dangerous” and that she has lined up help but needs time and funds. “I can…